Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe’s Artistic Director Nate Jacobs wrote “How I Got Over: A Gospel Revue” in 2016 to celebrate gospel and put a spotlight Mahalia Jackson, a pioneer of the gospel genre.
“’How I Got Over’ celebrates gospel, the history of gospel music in America, around the world even, and why that is so powerful and impactful in all people, but especially the African American experience in this country,” said Jacobs. “Why does that music hold so much impact and value and depth for us as a people? And since the days of slavery singing in the cotton fields, what is that meaning of why that plays a big part in who we are?”
This time around, Jacobs’ revue celebrates gospel artists such as Andre Crouch and Kirk Franklin and songs like “Center of My Joy” that have put their stamp on the genre and become beloved around the world. Of course, gospel staples such as “Oh Happy Day” and “When the Saints Go Marching In” won’t be forgotten.
Accompanied by a live band, the show’s large ensemble cast features numerous fan favorite artists, former Stage of Discovery students turned professional young artists, and some brand-new faces to the Donnelly Theatre stage.
MORE INFORMATION:
“How I Got Over: A Gospel Revue” is the latest show in Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe’s “Soul of a People" season in Sarasota.
WBTT Founder/Artistic Director Nate Jacobs created and directs the show. It was first performed in 2016.
It was featured in 2017 at the National (now International) Black Theater Festival.
The high-spirited show celebrates the music of renowned singers including Mahalia Jackson, Aretha Franklin, Shirley Caesar, Mighty Clouds of Joy, The Staple Singers, James Cleveland, and other gospel greats. It features traditional songs like “Travelin’ Shoes,” “Amazing Grace” and “His Eye Is On The Sparrow,” combined with more upbeat, popular tunes such as “Elijah Rock,” “Oh Happy Day” and “When The Saints Go Marching In.”
The story is told through song and dance in a setting that is familiar to many African Americans: the church.
The cast is accompanied by a live band led by Music Director Matthew McKinnon, who will also play main keys. The other members include Jamar Camp as assistant MD/keys 2; Dominic Santini, bass; and Alex Durant, drums.
The show’s choreographer is Donald Frison.
“Our 2026 production will have audiences up on their feet and filled with inspiration and joyful spirit,” said Jacobs. “I have been inspired – both personally and professionally – by the gospel greats we’ll be featuring in ‘How I Got Over’ and we invite the community to experience the joy and hope of gospel music as our artists raise the rafters of the WBTT theatre!”
Performances take place Tuesdays-Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. with matinees Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m.
Tickets are $54 for adults, $24 for students (25 and under) and active military, and $44 for adults for preview shows (first three nights of the run).
Visit westcoastblacktheatre.org or call the Box Office (941-366-1505) for tickets.
The mission of Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe is to produce professional theatre that promotes and celebrates African American history and experience, engages a broad base of patrons and audiences, supports the development of a dynamic group of aspiring artists, and builds confidence in youth of color. Visit westcoastblacktheatre.org for more information.
Support for WGCU’s arts & culture reporting comes from the Estate of Myra Janco Daniels, the Charles M. and Joan R. Taylor Foundation, and Naomi Bloom in loving memory of her husband, Ron Wallace.
